ChatON will enable users of all platforms to exchange messages, free of charge, in the same way that services like Skype trump OS-specific apps like BBM, Gtalk and Apple's forthcoming iMessage service.

Like Skype, there'll also be a web-based client and group chat options, while there'll also be an element of social networking, with users able to comment on each other's profiles.

ChatON also allows users to share images, videos, and voice messages and is likely to launch in September shortly after its IFA unveiling.